Life by the sea, beautiful landscapes, delicious cuisine, 9 months of summer, and mild winters – that's how we would describe life in Cyprus in a nutshell. According to statistics, there are currently around 15,000 Ukrainians living on the island, and the number of those interested in moving there continues to grow. We've gathered the thoughts of people who have already relocated to Cyprus and have been living there for some time. So, let's explore whether the island's life is as beautiful as it's described and also find out how to adapt to a new country.
Preparing Visa and Documents
Your first step is to gather information about the documents required for entry into your chosen country. Sometimes, this information can directly impact your decision due to certain restrictions, so it's the first thing to pay attention to. At the moment, there are no issues with entering Cyprus for Ukrainians, especially if you're not planning to seek refugee status. You just need to have your international passport.
Apart from refugee status, there are also several options for obtaining a visa. Let's discuss two of the most popular ones among young people.
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Yellow Slip: This visa got its name due to its appearance. Upon approval, you'll receive a yellow A4-sized document that allows you to stay in the country indefinitely. To get this residence permit, you need to apply for it within 4 months of entering the country. Citizens of the EU and their family members can obtain this permit, which also allows you to work officially in the country.
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Work Visa: Typically, the process of obtaining such a visa doesn't drastically differ from getting any other work visa. You need a job offer from a Cypriot company and a standard set of documents along with your passport. However, not all companies in Cyprus can provide such job offers. You can learn more about the requirements for companies that can hire foreign employees here.
The best way to reach Cyprus is by plane. There are two airports on the island, with Larnaca Airport being the most popular. Flight prices vary around 100 euros. For instance, at the time of writing this material, the ticket price from Krakow to Larnaca is 120 euros.
In Search of a New Home
Welcome, you've arrived in a Mediterranean country! The next step is to find accommodation. The country offers a wide range of resources to help you find apartments, given the substantial Ukrainian diaspora already living there. So, don't hesitate to collaborate with real estate agencies. Also, pay attention to the period in which you're searching for housing. The best time for relocation is from October to April, when there aren't a lot of tourists.
Apart from well-known platforms like Airbnb and Booking.com, you can use the following services:
- Dom.com.cy
- Bazaraki.com
- cyprus-realty
On average, housing here costs around 1500-2000 euros per month, but if you're moving alone without children, you can find cheaper options. As in any country, the price policy will depend on your preferences. For example, renting an apartment in the center of Larnaca will cost as much as renting a house far away from the city and the sea.
Step 3: Finding a Job
If you've come to Cyprus with the goal of finding a job, we have great news for you. The conditions for employment in this country are much more favorable than in many other European countries. Employees from other countries are hired in Cyprus, both in IT companies and in service-related industries. Skilled professionals in the beauty industry, restaurant managers, and waitstaff are highly valued on the island. And, of course, if you're fluent in English, you might have a good chance of finding a position in a real estate agency.
Where to Look?
In addition to the familiar platforms like LinkedIn and Facebook, you can find jobs in Cyprus through specialized websites or Ukrainian communities that are already established there. Let's start with the first option.
There are quite a few websites on the island where you can find job opportunities, such as Jooble. Currently, there is a high demand for IT specialists in Cyprus, as many companies, including Ukrainian ones, have relocated their offices to the island. Of course, when looking for such a job, you should always pay attention to the required documents and the job conditions. Websites often have convenient filters to help you save time during your job search.
If you're more interested in service-related jobs, we strongly recommend checking out general groups and chats on social media. Often, you can find job postings for beauty professionals, drivers, or waitstaff there. Such groups can also be a good way to promote your skills if, for example, you're a nail technician looking to build a new client base. The influx of people to the island presents a great opportunity for newcomers to find jobs, housing, or simply to make new friends and acquaintances.
How to Prepare?
Once you've identified the job positions that interest you, it's time to prepare for the job application process. Let's go through the preparation steps:
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Update your resume and portfolio: Include new information, refresh details about your latest job, and update the skills section. Use your resume to present information concisely and factually. For your portfolio, consider presenting your work examples in a presentation format. Tools like Canva or Figma can help you showcase your creativity.
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Write a cover letter: Your cover letter is the first thing a recruiter sees along with your resume. Keep it brief and provide information about your experience, the industries you've worked in, and why you're interested in the specific job position.
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Prepare for the first interview: If your work experience aligns with the employer's needs and you've scheduled a phone call or interview, it's time to prepare for the conversation. Make sure your speech is structured, relevant, and focused.
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Potential test assignments: If the interview goes well, you might be asked to complete a test assignment to showcase your skills. Believe in yourself and your expertise!
What to Do Initially After Moving
Upon your arrival in Cyprus, your first task is to register yourself. You need to do this within 4 months of arriving on the island. If you're a refugee, you'll need to obtain a temporary protection document with the right to permanent residency. Don't forget to also register family members and pets. If you're in Cyprus on a work visa, you can also apply for permanent residency for your family members who have joined you.
Another crucial aspect that will ease your transition is setting up a money transfer plan in advance. You'll need to prepare all the necessary documents from your home country for opening a bank account in Cyprus. This might include income statements, documents confirming the legal source of your income, etc. Choose a bank and initiate the process of opening an account on the island.
If you have children, don't delay in securing a spot in a daycare or school. Cyprus has Ukrainian-language schools and kindergartens, but due to the influx of people in 2022, spaces in these institutions might be limited.
Also, make sure to address medical insurance and registration requirements, as medical coverage often requires proper registration.
Cyprus Awaits You!
Many expatriates choose to move to Cyprus primarily due to its climate. Summers can reach up to 30 degrees Celsius, and winters don't drop below 15 degrees. Living in such a climate is very comfortable, and the stunning landscapes and sea serve as excellent mood boosters. However, keep in mind that living costs are relatively high compared to Ukraine or even some other European countries. To live comfortably with a child on the island, you'll need around 4,000-5,000 euros per month.
"I'm happy to have chosen Cyprus. Here, you feel safe." - Tatiana Bykova
Additionally, if you're used to a bustling and active lifestyle in a metropolis, you might want to explore other countries, as Cypriots tend to have a very calm and unhurried pace of life. Life on the island is generally peaceful and unhurried, without unnecessary rushes. Locals are very friendly and always ready to help. So, if you're seeking a peaceful life by the sea, Cyprus welcomes you!
*Special thanks to Tetiana Loktionova and Tatiana Bykova for their collaboration and provided information!
